General dentistry works to help you keep your natural teeth if possible. But sometimes, the healthiest option is tooth extraction. When your dentist extracts your tooth, you must follow the aftercare instructions. Not following the aftercare guidance can lead to difficulty healing and infection. Although your tooth is no longer there, you must still take care of your mouth as part of your oral health routine.
There are several different types of tooth extraction, depending on the type and condition of the tooth. For many extractions, the dentist will use a local anesthetic in the area near the tooth. A device called an elevator helps to lift the tooth out, and forceps pull the tooth. In some cases, a dentist will use a stronger anesthetic to put the patient to sleep. This is a frequent choice for children and also when a person needs a surgical extraction. Surgical extractions take longer, and sometimes the dentist must remove the tooth in pieces.
When the dentist removes the tooth, it leaves an empty socket. A blood clot forms in the socket, and the dentist will pack gauze into the socket to stop any bleeding and protect the blood clot. Sometimes, stitches are necessary. Recovery for simple extractions can take between a week and 10 days. Patients should take care not to dislodge the blood clot in the socket while healing. With surgical extractions, patients may experience longer recovery times and more soreness.
Patients should take care to prevent the blood clot from dislodging from the socket. General dentistry calls this dry socket, and it is very painful because it exposes nerve endings to the air. Dentists want patients to keep the gauze in place for at least three to four hours. Patients should also avoid spitting and rinsing, which can disturb the formation of the blood clot in the socket. Patients should avoid smoking and drinking alcohol while recovering from the extraction. Patients can also sleep with their heads propped up by a pillow because lying flat can delay the healing process.
General dentistry may prescribe pain medication or an over-the-counter option for the extraction. It will depend on the method of extraction and how many teeth the dentist removed. Patients can also use ice packs for short periods of time to numb the area. After 24 hours, patients can swish with salt water. This will help with pain and also help prevent infection. If patients do not feel relief in three to four days or if the pain suddenly becomes much worse, it is important to contact the dentist.
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Your dentist will work with you through every step of the tooth extraction process. General dentistry focuses on preserving your oral health for the long term. By following the dentist’s recommendations, you can have a smooth recovery. Ask your dentist about any concerns you may have about possible outcomes.
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